Feline Kites

Flying Kites Tips- The Basics

Flying kites can be a great way to have some fun for all ages big and small.  Kite flying has been associated more as a child’s activity but is grounded in some basic scientific principles that can lead to success or failure in flying a kite.

Purchasing the right kite for you

When purchasing a kite there are many factors that should be considered.  A purchase of a kite should be based on the experience of the aviator.  The best option for a beginner aviator would be a single- string model.  These types of kites are ideal for medium strength winds.  They are great for younger children and people with limited experience flying kites.  There are literally thousands of different models to choose from with different designs, tails, colors and sizes.  One should choose a kite that fits their individual personality.

Location

Choosing a proper location for kite flying is very important for the safety of the aviator and the kite itself.  It is important that a wide open area is used and no electrical storms are in the forecast.  Flying kites in crowded areas can make it difficult to get a kite airborne and difficult to maneuver around other flyers.

Takeoff  Tips

Flying kites in low winds and in high winds can create difficulty in getting a kite airborne and keeping it airborne.  The ideal speeds to fly a kite would be medium winds between 5-25 mph.  The easiest way to get a kite airborne is with the help of someone else.  You want to stand with your back facing the wind and have a helper lift the kite overhead to initiate liftoff.  If a helper is not available it is still possible to get a kite off the ground.  You will need to either prop the kite on a large stone, shrub, or hill, and run into the wind.  Be sure to let out enough string allowing the kite to get altitude.

Some kites will have adjustments that will assist in getting your kite off the ground.  Experiment with different positions of the adjustment to find the best placement for ideal flying.

Kite flying can be a great hobby for all ages.  More advanced kite flying requires more skill and experience. Use this website as a reference in finding all that kite flying has to offer.